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Jimmy Simmons

This year’s lineup for Jazz + Blues Festival may just be the most talented in the 11-year history of the event. Presented by the City of Beaumont and Kinsel Lincoln, the Jazz + Blues Festival will take place on Saturday, Jan. 28, at the historic Jefferson Theatre in downtown Beaumont. The festival is headlined by Muddy Magnolias, a powerful and soulful duo featuring Jessy Wilson and Kallie North. North is a Beaumont native and will be performing in Beaumont for the first time.

The Lamar University Staff Advisory Council has honored President James "Jimmy" Simmons with the “Distinguished President Award,” citing his inspiration and dedication during one of the brightest periods in Lamar’s history.

Diann Brodnax, president of the Staff Advisory Council, surprised Simmons with a special tribute and the presentation of a plaque at the conclusion of Lamar’s annual staff awards ceremony Tuesday, April 16.

The Night & Day Orchestra will hold a benefit concert for the Dr. Wayne Dyess Memorial Scholarship in Music on Thursday, May 2, at the Event Centre.Guests will enjoy a fun and elegant evening of dining and dancing accompanied by traditional big band favorites. Soloists Dr. Jimmy Simmons and Grammy-award winner Don Rollins will make guest appearances, and there will be a silent auction and other fun surprises.

Jimmy Simmons Boulevard officially became part of the Lamar University landscape Friday, March 1, 2013, with the unveiling of street signs and a tribute to Simmons and his wife, Susan, in the historic McDonald Gym.

The Pep Band and national-champion Cheerleading Team added Cardinal Spirit to the occasion, while two rows of Simmons children and grandchildren – including three new grandchildren in strollers – brought proud introductions from the stage.

The Texas State University System announced Tuesday, Sept. 11, the advisory search committee that will guide the process of selecting the next president of Lamar University. Lamar's President Simmons has announced that, after a 14-year tenure, he will officially step down Jan. 31, 2013.

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